Cavities are decayed areas of the teeth, and are one of the most common oral health concerns faced by dental patients around the world. Dental cavity occurs when the enamel structure is damaged, due to the continued presence of plaque and bacteria on the teeth.
Left untreated, plaques begin eating into the enamel of your teeth until it forms cavities – which cause infections, toothaches, and tooth loss. Detecting cavity on time improves your oral health as well as your overall health, helping you maintain your perfect smile and optimal dental health.
Signs of Tooth Decay
HOLES IN THE TOOTH
Perhaps the most obvious sign of dental cavity in your teeth is a visible hole on the top (or middle areas) of your tooth. You can feel for holes with your tongue or by looking into a mirror. Go see a dentist immediately you find any.
TOOTH DISCOLORATION
A filmy white patch on your teeth, that appears much whiter than your teeth, is a sign of plaque – which could eventually turn into a dental cavity. A damaged enamel will begin producing much darker discolorations such as dark yellow, brown, gray, or even black spots on your tooth.
BAD BREATH
As the tooth continues to decay, bacteria will rapidly increase in number, eventually resulting in bad breath. This will occur regardless of how often you brush, and it is a strong indication of the need for dental check-ups. Bad breath is mostly accompanied by foul mouth taste, even when you have just brushed.
TOOTH ACHE
A dental cavity or cavities left untreated for long periods eventually lead to frequent toothaches. This discomforting pain – a result of bacteria acids getting to the root and nerve endings – should be directed immediately to your dentist.
TEETH SENSITIVITY
Dental cavity makes your teeth more sensitive than they ordinarily should be. Drinking something hot or cold will easily elicit a painful feeling in the affected tooth, but this pain fades as soon as the drink passes. Sweet foods will likely draw the same feeling too. At its most critical when biting and chewing becomes difficult due to sensitivity. While you can always try sensitive toothpaste, you need to see your dentist if the symptom persists.
PUS
Pus is a serious indication of not just tooth decay, but also of infection. It can result in pain, fever and swollen glands. Do not try pricking or touching the pus when noticed. Inform a professional dentist for immediate help.
Early detection and treatment of pus can prevent a lot of problems going forward. Beyond the promise of a healthy smile, it promotes healthy living in general.
Risk Factors of Cavities
The risk factors for dental cavities include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Eating sugary foods
- Not getting enough fluoride
- Dry mouth
- And certain medical conditions
Prevention
There are many ways to prevent dental cavities, but the most important is to maintain good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. It also includes using mouthwash, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding sugary drinks.
How to Treat
There are a few different ways to treat cavities. The most common is to fill the cavity with a special dental filling. This can be done by your dentist or by another healthcare professional.
Another way to treat cavities is to have them sealed. This is done by putting a special sealant on the teeth. This sealant helps to prevent plaque and bacteria from building up in the cavities. If the cavities are severe, you may need to have a root canal. This is a procedure where the dentist removes the infected tissue from the tooth. After a root canal, you will need to have a crown put on the tooth.
Be sure to see our dentists and Westgate Dental Clinic immediately if you notice any of the signs that you have a tooth decay. Our dentists can show you how to prevent cavities as well as treat any existing cavities.
